1. Prepare the Bread
- Butter the Bread: Spread 1 tablespoon of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. Ensure the butter is evenly distributed to get a nice, golden-brown crust.
2. Assemble the Sandwich
- Layer the Cheese: Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a cutting board. Add two slices of cheese on each piece of bread. If you’re adding extras like tomato, bacon, or ham, place them on top of the cheese.
- Top with Bread: Place the remaining two slices of bread on top, buttered side up, to form the sandwiches.
3. Cook the Sandwich
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Cook the Sandwich: Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. If the bread is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low to ensure the cheese melts fully before the bread burns.
4. Serve
- Slice and Serve: Remove the grilled cheese sandwiches from the skillet. Let them cool for a minute, then slice in half and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Cheese Melting: For best results, use cheese that melts well, like cheddar, American, mozzarella, or Swiss.
- Even Cooking: Press down gently with a spatula while cooking to ensure even browning and melting.
- Low and Slow: Cooking on medium or medium-low heat ensures the cheese melts thoroughly without burning the bread.
Variations
Try these variations to customize your grilled cheese:
- Different Cheeses: Use a combination of cheeses like gouda, fontina, or pepper jack for a gourmet twist.
- Add Veggies: Add spinach, arugula, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Spread a thin layer of sriracha or add jalapeño slices for a spicy version.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve made a delicious Classic Melted Grilled Cheese sandwich. This timeless favorite is perfect for any time of day and can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Whether you enjoy it plain or with added extras, it’s always a satisfying and comforting meal.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and enjoy the ooey-gooey goodness of a perfect grilled cheese sandwich. Bon appétit!